flippedHeading.jpg
image source: www.edudemic.com

What is a FLIPPED CLASSROOM?
Flipped Learning is a pedagogical approach in which direct instruction moves from the group learning space to the individual learning space, and the resulting group space is transformed into a dynamic, interactive learning environment where the educator guides students as they apply concepts and engage creatively in the subject matter.

-Flipped Learning Network

Experienced Flipped educators use four "pillars" to guide and inform instruction
F: flexible environment
L: learning culture
I: intentional content
P: professional educator
Flexibility is key, as learning occurs through various means, and at different rates.The Learning Culture of the flipped classroom embraces student-centered learning; students are at the forefront of their learning and take an active role in making meaning from content being presented.Material (content) is intentionally chosen based on the students in the class; what is being taught and practiced in one class, may just need to be briefly reviewed in another. Professional educators employing flipped instruction assume the role of "guide on the side," continuously observing students and providing appropriate feedback. In addition, reflecting and modifying instruction may should occur as often as needed.


Educators wanting to evaluate their ability to run a flipped classroom should use the following checklist of indicators, developed by the Flipped Learning Network board members. Indicators are broken down by the four pillars of flipped learning.
F.1
F.2
F.3
L.1
L.2
I.1
I.2
I.3
P.1
P.2
P.3
establish spaces and time frames
that permit students to interact
and reflect on their learning as
needed
continually observe and monitor students to make adjustments as appropriate
provide students with different ways to learn content and demonstrate mastery
give students opportunities to engage in meaningful activities without the teacher being central
scaffold these activities and make them accessible to all students through differentiation and feedback
prioritize concepts used in direct instruction for learners to access on their own
create and/or curate relevant content for students
differentiate to make content accessible and relevant to all students
make myself available to all students for individual, small group, and class feedback in real time as needed
conduct ongoing formative assessments during class time through observation and by recording data to inform future instruction
collaborate and reflect with other educators and take responsibility for transforming my practice



The Flipped Classroom in Action







An Honest, Realistic Examination of Switching to a Flipped Mode




















Other Considerations: Cost, Digital Citizenship, and Ethical use

When implementing a flipped learning environment, educators cannot simply switch to this teaching approach without also teaching students how to be digital citizens who have a social and ethical responsibility when accessing and producing material.
iKeepSafe has created the acronym "Be a Pro" to help with teaching youth how to be "ethical, responsible and resilient digital citizens" (iKeepSafe.org).perfect-balance.png
honest-user.png
info-safeguard.png
character-guardian.png
healthy-friendship.png
identity-watch.png

Cost is also a valid concern when trying to gain support on new devices, or tech. tools to help with flipped learning. Citing increases in student achievement is a good place to start. Being a part of School Improvement teams can also be an effective way to have a voice and promote the flipped classroom approach.

References
Definition of Flipped Learning. (2014, March 12). Retrieved June 29, 2014, from http://flippedlearning.org/domain/46
Flipped Classroom Examples. (2012, February 8). Retrieved June 30, 2014, from http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=1TIEwAztv9w

iKeepSafe: Be a Pro. (2014, January 1). Retrieved July 3, 2014, from http://www.ikeepsafe.org/be-a-pro/info/
Sowash, J. R. (2012, April 23). 5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Flipped My Class. Retrieved June 30, 2014, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JPdGlyt6gg
The Four Pillars of F-L-I-P. (n.d.). Retrieved June 29, 2014, from http://flippedlearning.org/domain/46